Alaska is considered "The Last Frontier," but that doesn't mean hunting in Alaska is a free-for-all. Five endangered species currently exist in Alaska, with many others considered nongame, threatened or protected.
Hunting in Alaska is absolutely a bucket list endeavor, but it's important to check state regulations before embarking on any hunting expedition.
Here are five animals that are off-limits when hunting in Alaska:
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Short-tailed Albatross: Endangered - The state of Alaska placed the short-tailed albatross on their state endangered species list in 1972, and the bird is also listed as a federally endangered species. A critical habitat designation does not exist in the state for these Albatross.
- Blue Whale: Endangered - Blue whales are one of three whales protected as endangered species in Alaska. The other two whale species are Humpback and Right whales. The Blue Whale was added to the federal endangered species list in 1970 and Alaska's endangered species list in 1987.
- Polar Bear: Endangered - It's no secret that the natural habitat of polar bears has been greatly diminished by climate change. In fact, polar bears have the distinction of being the "first marine mammal to be listed under the Endangered Species Act because of climate change" according to Defenders of Wildlife. These majestic creatures may seem tough enough to take care of themselves, but Alaska and the federal government have designated these bears as threatened and therefore off-limits for hunting since 2008.
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- Wood Bison: Threatened
-Wood bison were non-existent in Alaska for many years, and the animal was just reintroduced to the Alaskan wilderness near the Lower Innoko and Yukon River. So far, the nearly 100 bison seem to be adjusting nicely and the Alaska Department of Fish and Game is optimistic. Bulls will be added to the herd in time for breeding season.
- Northern Sea Otter: Threatened - These marine mammals have been on the threatened list in Alaska since 2005. In recent years, the otters biggest threat are killer whales and human pollution such as oil spills and getting entangled by fishing nets. There are also five critical habitats designated in Alaska, which include the Aleutian Islands, Bristol Bay, The Kodiak Archipelago, the Alaska Peninsula, and western Cook Inlet.
This article is for information only. Please check current regulations before hunting.
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